Graphic Novel Review: Moonstruck Vol 1 by Grace Ellis

Moonstruck Vol 1 by Grace Ellis, Shae Beagle, Kat Fajardo
Series: Moonstruck
Graphic Novel ∴ YA/NA ∴ Fantasy ∴ LGBTQIA+
Published March 27th 2018 by Image Comics
Paperback ∴ 120 pages

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Werewolf barista Julie and her new girlfriend go on a date to a close-up magic show, but all heck breaks loose when the magician casts a horrible spell on their friend Chet. Now it’s up to the team of mythical pals to stop the illicit illusionist before it’s too late.

This was SO. FREAKING. CUTE. I literally can’t take it. I think I smiled through most of it because it was just so wholesome and good.

It’s also super duper inclusive. The main character, Julie, is a lesbian werewolf who has a case of body dysphoria, her best friend and centaur, Chet, is non-binary. Julie meets Serena, another lesbian werewolf, and the three of them go to a magic show (which shouldn’t be anything too special because everyone is a monster or creature of some sort and there’s magic anywhere), but Chet has their magic, and pony butt, stolen. They’re human. And Julie and Serena must find the magician and get their magic back.

I loved every minute of this, well almost. There was a weird moment where Julie and Serena fight, but the way that they interact is almost like they’ve known each other for years when it’s only been a few weeks, at best. I don’t know about you, but I rarely ever talk to my friends like that, even if I am mad. I just can’t. Serena says some really hurtful things to Julie and I just don’t understand the dynamic at that point.

Other than the weird character interaction towards the end, I absolutely loved this and I can’t wait to read volume 2 when it’s out!

Also, “werewolf barista” makes me think of that 30 Rock bit, “Werewolf Bar Mitzvah,” that Tracy Jordan sings.